Vibrators: What They Are and How to Use Them
Time and time again, I will toss a breezy, adjustable C-ring like this into my bag or back pocket. It’s discreet, and works for pretty much all penis sizes (the max adjustment level is 8.5 inches) vibrator, and when you’re done using it, the release toggle is just a push away. Listen, I want to do my part for the environment, but I also want to get off—and now I can do both. The Gaia Eco surprised me with its power and design—it’s not just a gimmick, it works. Plus, I feel slightly better about my life choices knowing my vibrator isn’t contributing to landfills. The PlusOne Dual Vibrating Massager delivers pleasure without the hefty price tag.
While in some cases, you get what you pay for, “there absolutely are sex toys for under $50 that are safe and well-made,” says Wright. Many of the budget-friendly options below are great for beginners, as luxury toys can have too many intimidating bells and whistles. It’s only about the size of a pinky (3.35 inches) and has 15 vibration patterns for a wide range of sensations.
Our Good Housekeeping Institute testing panel, made up of over 130 women of all ages and sex toy experience levels, tested a range of vibrators to find the ones worth investing in. Safe-sex practices are important either with a partner or on your own. Ensuring your toys are clean keeps infections at bay and can improve the life-span of your bedroom buddy. Remote control options come with a separate device that offers short-range control or hands-free fun. Meanwhile app-controlled vibrators are ideal for long-distance sessions.
Just keep in mind that they’re usually not anal-safe, since most models don’t have a flared base. Unlike some toys that use air to massage your clit, the donut-shaped Ora 3 has a nub-like “tongue” that rotates around your hot spot. The device’s silicone body is easy to hold thanks to an ergonomic cut-out for your fingers, while 12 vibration settings offer plenty of variety. Compared to earlier generations, the Ora 3 has a firmer node for a more realistic sensation and LED lights that blink to tell you how charged it is. It’s no surprise that the best vibrators are some of the most popular sex toys around.
“Honestly, the quietest toys are going to be marketed as quiet,” says Gigi Engle, a certified sex and relationship psychotherapist and resident intimacy expert at dating app, 3Fun. “With that being said, you’re going to want to look for something smaller that has a smaller motor.” Engle explains that the smaller the motor, the quieter the toy. “You’re going to have better luck with palm, finger , and bullet vibrators. These toys are basically silent, which can be a great choice,” Engle adds. Wands are super versatile, with long handles and large heads that make them easy to use in different solo or partnered positions.
The Satisfyer Pro 2 uses suction technology similar to that of the Womanizer models. We recommend water-based lube because it is safe to use with all types of toys. There is some controversy surrounding the impact of silicone lube on silicone toys, so we decided to conduct our own test.
If noisy buzzing takes you out of the moment, consider this cock ring and its amazingly quiet (but not weak) vibrations. Its shimmies and shakes have a low, rumbly timbre for deep, satisfying sensations, and its matte silicone is super soft against skin, especially when lubed. This cock ring doesn’t have a lot of bells and whistles, but that’s the point if you’d rather hear moans than vibes.